Charlie Kirk, 31, was assassinated during a Turning Point USA debate at Utah Valley University on September 10. About 20 minutes into his speech, shots were fired, leaving the conservative activist mortally wounded. Witnesses said he recoiled in his chair before the crowd panicked. One recalled, “We all dropped to the ground… then everyone around us got up and started running.”

Police said the shooter likely fired from the roof of the Losee Center. Two people were questioned but later released, and the suspect remains at large. The FBI confirmed it is assisting, with director Kash Patel writing: “Agents will be on the scene quickly and the FBI stands in full support of the ongoing response and investigation.”

Donald Trump confirmed Kirk’s death on Truth Social: “The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead… He was loved and admired by ALL, especially me… Charlie, we love you!” He also ordered flags across the U.S. flown at half-mast until Sunday.

Kirk was best known as the co-founder of Turning Point USA, which promoted conservative values in schools and universities. While controversial, he was praised by supporters as a champion of free speech and a loyal ally of Trump.